Manufacturing process for a reprographic support and use of the support for visual communication and hyperrealistic artworks

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a reprographic support comprising a layer of polymer fibers and its use for reproducing works of art with a hyperrealistic effect.

Description

Title of the invention: Method for manufacturing a reprographic support and use of the support for visual communication and hyperrealistic artwork. Field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a reprographic support comprising a layer of polymer fibers and its use for reproducing artistic works with a hyperrealistic effect, for example for communication, packaging, or any other adaptation to any graphic universe. State of the art

[0002] Reprographic processes appeared 6000 years ago in Mesopotamia (cylinder seal) and since the invention of photography in the 19th century the final rendering of reprographs has evolved very little.

[0003] Since the end of the 20th century, digital printing processes have dominated the market for both visual communication and the artistic field, particularly for reproducing posters and paintings. Their drawback is a lack of matte finish and the presence of reflections to which the human eye has not yet become accustomed in the evolutionary cycle of mammals. Very often, the reproductions are not faithful to the original work and do not evoke a contemplative state.

[0004] Description of the invention

[0005] In its research to further improve the visual properties of reprographies, the applicant has discovered a specific process allowing in particular a core colouring of a layer of fibres, and which makes it possible to increase the aesthetic qualities by drastically reducing the presence of reflections with a remarkable matte finish, giving a hyperrealistic illusion, in particular reproducing all types of materials, living or inanimate: textures, animal or human skin, hair or feathers, fibres, stone, metal, wood, plant, varnish, water, fire, light, etc.

[0006] To this end, the present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a non-woven layer for reprographic support made of polymer fibers, characterized in that it comprises the following successive steps: - (i) a step of mixing a first group of polymer fibers with a second group of polymer fibers, in a mass proportion of fibers from the second group less than or equal to that of the first group of fibers, the polymer fibers from the second group having a softening or melting temperature (T2) less than the softening or melting temperature (Tl) of the polymer(s) of the first group of fibers; - (ii) a layering step of said mixture by interlocking said fibres under the action of water jets or by needle punching to obtain a non-woven layer; - (iii) a step of thermally bonding the polymer fibers of the non-woven layer by calendering at a temperature (Tcal) close to ± 5°C of the softening temperature (T2) of the polymer(s) of the fiber(s) of the second group of fibers and lower than the softening or melting temperature (Tl) of the polymer(s) of the fiber(s) of the first group of fibers; and (iv) a cooling step of the resulting thermally bonded fibre non-woven layer (also called "non-woven web").

[0007] The difference between temperatures T1 and T2 is advantageously at least 10 °C, preferably at least 20 °C, preferably still at least 30 °C, preferably still at least 40 °C.

[0008] Thus, during the calendering stage, the polymer fibers of the second group soften and adhere to the neighboring fibers of the first group. This bonding of the fibers through softening of the second group strengthens the adhesion of all the fibers together. This results in a slight reduction in the cutoff point of the layer thus formed, but which, surprisingly, after a printing process, will produce a high vibrancy of colors by limiting gloss. This color brilliance property is very important for the favorable perception of a pictorial work, in particular. Thus, the greater the matte finish, the more natural the rendering appears. The fibers of the first group will perform this function, retaining their natural matte finish as much as possible at room temperature.

[0009] By "reprographic support", in the context of the present invention, a decorative surface intended to accommodate one (or more) impression(s), for example by inkjet.

[0010] The reprographic support can take the form of a screen, a painting for example placed or stretched on a frame, a poster, a reproduction of a painting, a reproduction of a photograph or a tarpaulin.

[0011] The support can be rigid or flexible.

[0012] The object of the present invention is therefore particularly suitable for the reproduction of (art) paintings.

[0013] The reprographic support (once implemented) can be installed indoors or outdoors, for example in front of buildings or in isolation on a wall or easel.

[0014] Preferably, polymer fibers are polymer fibers thermoplastic, such as polyester, polyamide, polyethylene and / or polypropylene fibers.

[0015] According to an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, step (i) of mixing the polymer fibers of the first group of fibers and the polymer fibers of the second group of fibers comprises mixing a mass proportion of 2 to 20% of polymer fibers of the second group of fibers, preferably 5 to 15% of polymer fibers of the second group of fibers, and even more preferably 8 to 12% of polymer fibers of the second group of fibers, relative to the total of the polymer fibers of the first and second groups of fibers. Thus, for a good compromise between matte finish (fibers of the first group) and color brilliance (fibers of the second group) in the air of said single-layer nonwoven fabric, the mass proportion of polymer fibers at softening temperature T2 is close to 10%. Indeed, it has been surprisingly observed that the object of the present invention allows for a management of reflections that differentiates it from other artificial objects.This unique feature gives printed reproductions an unparalleled visual effect by providing remarkable attenuation of reflections. This control of reflections produces a stunningly realistic and unique effect. For example, a reproduction of an oil painting according to the present invention gives the visual impression of being in front of the original. A reproduction of a mineral, vegetable, and / or animal texture according to the present invention eliminates the artificial appearance observed with other types of reprography.

[0016] Advantageously, the mixture of polymer fibers introduced in step (i) has a total weight that allows a single-layer woven filter mat to be obtained with a basis weight of between 20 and 200 g / m2, preferably between 30 and 100 g / m2, more preferably between 50 and 90 g / m2 or between 60 and 80 g / m2.

[0017] In the embodiments of the invention presented below, at least one outer zone of the fibers of the second group of fibers has a softening temperature T2. The structure of these fibers of the second group of fibers may depend on the diameter of the fibers, as shown below.

[0018] According to a first variant of the process of the invention, the polymer fibers of the second group of fibers are single-component fibers having a softening temperature (T2) lower than at least 10 °C, preferably at least 20 °C, preferably even more at least 30 °C, preferably even more at least 40 °C, than the softening or melting temperature (T1) of the polymer fibers of the first group of fibers.

[0019] According to a second embodiment of the process of the invention, the polymer fibers of the second group are two-component fibers formed of a core and a sheath external, exhibiting a softening or melting temperature (T2) of the sheath that is at least 10 °C lower, preferably at least 20 °C, and even more preferably at least 30 °C lower than that of the core.

[0020] According to a third variant of the process of the invention, the polymer fibers of the second group are bi- or multi-component fibers formed of several twisted yarns, at least one of the yarns having a softening or melting temperature (T2) lower than at least 10 °C, preferably at least 20 °C, preferably even more at least 30 °C than that of the other yarns of said twist.

[0021] Advantageously, in either of the above variants, the polymer fibers of the first fiber group are single-component fibers.

[0022] The diameter of the polymer fibers of the first and second group of fibers can be on the order of a few tens of micrometers, preferably about 10 pm.

[0023] In a particular embodiment of the invention, the process for manufacturing a non-woven layer of polymer fibers comprises: -(i) a mixing step of 90% by weight of single-component polymer fibers of the first group, with a softening or melting temperature T1 between 230 °C and 250 °C, with 10% by weight of polymer fibers of the second group of fibers with a softening temperature T2 between 170 and 185 °C and a melting temperature of 190 °C. -(ii) a step of coating the mixture of said fibres under a jet of water according to a basis weight of 80 g / m2, -(üi) a step of thermal bonding of the fibers by calendering the fibers at a temperature between 170°C and 190°C.

[0024] It should be noted that in this latter embodiment, it has been observed that after digital printing and then calendering or sublimation by transfer, the printed support according to the present invention presents a rendering very close to reality.

[0025] In addition, the manufacturing process may include a treatment step (before or after printing an image on the non-woven polymer fiber layer) with a fluorocarbon compound, such as poly(vinylidene fluoride), giving the non-woven fiber layer water impermeability, dust removal capacity, and microfiber strength to limit unsightly pilling.

[0026] Thus, the object of the present invention relates to a non-woven layer for reprographic support made of polymer fibers that can be obtained according to the process described above, preferably having a basis weight between 20 and 200 g / m2, preferably between 30 and 100 g / m2.

[0027] Preferably, the non-woven layer for reprographic support made of polymer fibers, which can be obtained according to the process described above, has a weight between 25 and 150 g / m2, preferably between 30 and 100 g / m2, more preferably between 50 and 90 g / m2, more preferably between 60 and 80 g / m2.

[0028] It has been observed that, advantageously, the reprographic support made of polymer fibers according to the present invention has particularly interesting filtration and acoustic characteristics, implying a possible use in these fields.

[0029] The object of the present invention further relates to a multilayer reprographic support comprising: - at least one first non-woven layer of polymer fibers as described above; - at least one second layer, called a reinforcement layer, linked to the first layer, for example linked by means of at least one third bonding layer sandwiched between the first and second layers.

[0030] Said at least one reinforcing layer may be of variable opacity.

[0031] Said at least one reinforcing layer may therefore be partially opaque or completely opaque, especially to visible light.

[0032] Said at least one reinforcing layer makes it possible to strengthen the mechanical resistance of the multilayer support.

[0033] Said at least one reinforcing layer may comprise a natural material such as cellulose fibers, cotton, hemp, bamboo, flax, skin, leather, a metallic layer, gold foil etc., for example in the form of woven or non-woven fabric(s) as appropriate, or a synthetic material such as polyester fibers, acrylates, lycra®, etc. or a plastic polymer in particular in fiber or layer form, or a combination of at least one natural material and at least one synthetic material such as a silver or gold-looking film which may be totally opaque.

[0034] Natural materials such as cotton, hemp, bamboo, linen, etc., or synthetic fibers, or combinations thereof, in dark colors are useful for making blacks stand out when used as reinforcing layers. By contrast, light colors make whites stand out. Typically, medium colors, ideally beige or khaki, can also be used. The weight can range from 50 to 300 g / m² depending on the desired effect.

[0035] The reinforcing layer can be flexible or rigid.

[0036] In a particular embodiment, said at least one reinforcing layer comprises a thermoformable plastic plate, which allows the finished product to have relief: 3D geographical map, decorative object, tray or bowl in tableware.

[0037] In a particular embodiment, the multilayer support may include several reinforcing layers to allow for different technical effects.

[0038] For example, the multilayer support may include a partially opaque reinforcing layer of woven or non-woven fabric (e.g. cotton, hemp, bamboo, linen, leather, polyester, acrylates, lycra®, or a combination thereof) and a totally opaque reinforcing layer (such as a gold and / or silver-looking film or velvet).

[0039] The main function of opacity is to provide feedback of the light signal for improved color rendering. Another advantage is that it can be used in blackout fabrics or materials. Finally, it improves the durability of the multilayer substrate and prevents pilling over time.

[0040] Thus, the multilayer support may include a reinforcing layer in the form of an opaque film, in particular metallized, gold or silver. This type of film is generally used in the food industry inside candy and chocolate bar packages.

[0041] In addition, the multilayer support may include a reinforcing layer selected from: - cardboard, for example as used in the cardboard manufacturing trades, in the packaging of perfume bottles for example; -leather, for example for decorative objects or leather or imitation leather clothing; in this case, the inside of the garment will be the printed front; or - a wooden, aluminum, or any type of semi-rigid or rigid material board for visual communication support: board or POS (Point of Sale Advertising).

[0042] In a particular embodiment, at least one first non-woven layer of polymer fibers as described above is softened by heating or humidification and stretched and bonded onto a semi-rigid or rigid reinforcing layer such as wood, cardboard, plastic, or metal. In the context of the present invention, such a bonding method is referred to as a "force bonding method."

[0043] The heating step of the so-called press-fit process can be carried out, for example, by using steam, immersion in a hot water bath, or by air heating. This softens the first non-woven polymer fiber layer, allowing it to be stretched and ensuring tension in this layer, thereby ensuring greater durability over time while providing the characteristic "peach skin" effect of the multilayer material according to the present invention.

[0044] The humidification step of the so-called force-setting process can be carried out by using water in vapor or liquid form, for example by soaking or spraying.

[0045] In a particular embodiment, the third bonding layer enabling the bond between said first and second layers comprises a hot melt film (PET for example), an adhesive, or a crosslinkable polymer material.

[0046] For example, the bonding layer may include a hot melt film comprising polyethylene, polyester, flexible transparent methacrylate, such as ethyl methacrylate or butyl methacrylate, vinyl, EVA, polyamide, polyurethane, epoxy or a mixture thereof.

[0047] Preferably, the bonding layer comprises a hot-melt film comprising polyethylene.

[0048] In one embodiment, the reinforcing layer can be pre-glued on single or double-sided tape to ensure optimal adhesion of the other layers of the multilayer during the calendering process. In cold or hot lamination, an adhesive can also be added to strengthen the multilayer.

[0049] In a particular embodiment, the multilayer reprographic support according to the present invention is characterized in that at least one protective layer is applied to the surface of the non-woven layer and / or to the surface of the reinforcing layer.

[0050] In a particular embodiment, said at least one protective layer is a protective film with a white, black, colored or transparent front side, also offering any type of visual effect, holographic, glittery, textured (leather, canvas), in polyester or acrylic, providing additional mechanical protection and / or weather protection.

[0051] Advantageously, said at least one protective layer is obtained by varnishing, a process consisting of applying a layer of varnish compatible with the digital printing to be carried out or already carried out. This varnish can also be textured by a graining operation.

[0052] In other words, the multilayer support, also called a "multilayer complex", can comprise 2, 3, 4 or 5 identifiable layers: - a non-woven layer made of polymer fibers, also called a "sheet", intended to receive mechanical or digital printing, preferably allowing the dyes to penetrate deep into said non-woven layer; - an optional linking layer; - one or two layers of reinforcement; and - an optional protective layer; also called a "protective film".

[0053] Preferably, where two reinforcement layers are present, one of the reinforcement layers is partially opaque such as a woven or non-woven fabric (for example, cotton, hemp, bamboo, linen, leather, polyester, acrylates, lycra®, or a combination thereof) and the other reinforcement layer is totally opaque (such as a gold and / or silver-looking film).

[0054] The multilayer substrate comprises a front side, intended to receive a hyperrealistic image according to the present invention by printing, and a back side (which can also receive a conventional image). The non-woven layer of polymer fibers is therefore positioned on the front side of the multilayer substrate, while the reinforcing layer is positioned on the back side of the multilayer substrate.

[0055] In a particular embodiment, the non-woven layer of polymer fibers is a polyester veil (also called "felt") of 30 to 100 g / m2.

[0056] The object of the present invention further relates to the use of a multilayer reprographic support as described above with a printing device to transfer an image onto at least one non-woven polymer fiber layer of said multilayer support.

[0057] Preferably, the use according to the present invention is characterized in that the printing device is a digital device, an inkjet printing device, a laser printing device, a screen printing device, a sublimation device (i.e. a decal by heat transfer of an ink printed on a substrate such as paper), or a combination thereof.

[0058] The object of the present invention thus relates to a method for printing an image on a multilayer reprographic substrate according to the present invention comprising the following successive steps: - (a) placement of said multilayer support in a printing device; - (b) implementation of the printing device to transfer an image onto said multilayer substrate, preferably onto at least one non-woven polymer fibre layer of said multilayer substrate; and - (c) recovery of a printed multilayer support, displaying the transferred image.

[0059] It should be noted that the calendering operation described above can be carried out during the printing operation of the non-woven layer with a transfer paper in order to create patterns, for example colored patterns.

[0060] Preferably, the method according to the present invention is characterized in that the printing device is a digital device, an inkjet printing device, a laser printing device, a screen printing device, a sublimation device, or a combination thereof.

[0061] The object of the present invention also relates to a printed multilayer support, which can be obtained according to the image printing process as described above, preferably having a core colouring of the polymer fibres of the non-woven layer of the multilayer support.

[0062] The multilayer printed support according to the invention can find uses in many fields: in particular in the field of POS (Point of Sale) advertising, in art reproduction, in interior architectural decoration, in packaging, in clothing (for example a leather jacket with an image inside), in tableware (plates, dishes, glasses, mugs, etc.), in monumental frescoes or even in lighting accessories.

[0063] It has also been observed that, advantageously, the multilayer printed support according to the present invention has particularly interesting filtration and acoustic characteristics, implying possible use in these fields.

[0064] In one embodiment, the object of the present invention may further have a marking or a particular distinctive sign enabling its origin to be certified and / or helping to trace it.

[0065] Such a marking or distinctive sign may be an artist's signature, a QR code, a security hologram, or a combination thereof.

[0066] For example, during a particular event (for example, artistic or sporting), the multilayer printed support according to the present invention may have a marking or a distinctive sign allowing it to be certified later that this multilayer printed support is an original present during said event.

[0067] In particular, a mural manufactured according to the present invention and comprising one or more images of people, at life size, gives the illusion, when a photo is taken (for example of the self-portrait type (“selfie” in English), that the person or people are really there, photographed.

[0068] By way of example, during a sporting event such as the Olympic Games or a football World Cup, all participating athletes can be printed life-size on a single mural. Preferably, this mural is traceable and verifiable by the use of a marking or distinctive sign such as the signatures of each athlete and / or the photographer who took the portraits, a QR code, a security hologram, or a combination thereof.

[0069] The invention will be well understood upon reading the following description of exemplary embodiments.

[0070] Examples

[0071] All the examples described below were produced by the following process for the production of the non-woven layer made of polymer fibers:

[0072] -(i) a step of mixing 90% by weight of single-component polymer fibers of the first group, with a softening or melting temperature T1 between 230 °C and 250 °C with 10% by weight of polymer fibers of the second group of fibers with a softening temperature T2 between 170 and 185 °C and a melting temperature of 190 °C. -(ii) a step of coating the mixture of said fibres under a jet of water according to a basis weight of 80 g / m2, -(üi) a step of thermal bonding of the fibers by calendering the fibers at a temperature between 170°C and 190°C.

[0073] The bonding of the different layers to each other, unless specifically stated below, was carried out using hot-melt polymers, including polyethylene. Polyethylene as such is not essential to the implementation of the invention but has demonstrated appreciable effectiveness and versatility in this case. Any other flexible hot-melt polymer (transparent or otherwise) could have been used with equally satisfactory results.

[0074] Example 1 of a multilayer implementation

[0075] Non-woven layer made of polymer fibres: 80 g / m2 two-component polyester felt with a so-called coarse texture.

[0076] First reinforcement layer: 100 g / m2 black cotton canvas impregnated with glue on one side.

[0077] After sublimation of this complex on the front side, the resulting effect resembles a printed wool felt, particularly matte, with a moiré effect and a very deep black. The texture obtained on this front side is peach-skin type, very slightly fuzzy.

[0078] A dye-sublimation printing test was carried out on this particular type of multilayer material using a photograph of parquet flooring. A few meters from the parquet sample and a reproduction of the same parquet, it is practically impossible for the human eye to perceive a difference. The same is true for skin, hair, and the different textures of all types of materials, which is a desired effect in hyperrealistic art, advertising signage, or packaging.

[0079] Example 2 of a multilayer implementation

[0080] Non-woven layer made of polymer fibres: 60 g / m2 two-component polyester felt with smooth texture and fluorocarbon treatment.

[0081] First reinforcement layer: transparent polyester fabric pre-glued on 2 sides.

[0082] Second reinforcement layer: 8 micrometer thick opaque film, metallized on the outside, laminated with PET.

[0083] After sublimation of this complex on the front side, the resulting effect resembles a fine art print photograph, with a matte to slightly satin finish. The front side has a peach-skin feel, but without any fuzz.

[0084] Example 3 of a multilayer implementation

[0085] Non-woven layer made of polymer fibres: 60 g / m2 two-component polyester felt with smooth texture, with fluorocarbon treatment.

[0086] First reinforcement layer: black polyamide fabric 50 g / m2 pre-glued on 2 sides.

[0087] Second reinforcement layer: 8 micrometer thick opaque film, metallized on the outside, laminated with PET (film generally used in the food industry inside storage bags).

[0088] After sublimation of this complex on the front face, the effect obtained resembles a photo of the type of art print, glossy appearance, or even plasticized with a higher sublimation temperature.

[0089] Example 4 of a multilayer implementation

[0090] Non-woven layer made of polymer fibres: 80 g / m2 two-component polyester felt with a coarse texture.

[0091] First reinforcement layer: 50 g / m2 transparent polyester fabric pre-glued on 2 sides.

[0092] Second layer of reinforcement: cardboard packaging of the type used in perfume packaging.

[0093] After sublimation of this complex on the front face, the effect obtained is similar to the luxury perfume packaging requiring many printed layers, with a velvety feel and a very matte appearance on the printed side A.

[0094] Example 5 of a multilayer implementation

[0095] Non-woven layer made of polymer fibres: 80 g / m2 two-component polyester felt with a coarse texture.

[0096] First reinforcement layer: 50 g / m2 transparent polyester fabric pre-glued on 2 sides.

[0097] Second layer of reinforcement: lambskin leather.

[0098] After sublimation of this complex onto the front side, a leather placemat is obtained with the interior of the leather printed, for use in clothing or as a placemat. The front side has a velvety feel.

[0099] Example 6 of a multilayer implementation

[0100] Non-woven layer made of polymer fibres: 80 g / m2 two-component polyester felt with a coarse texture.

[0101] First reinforcement layer: 2 mm thick thermoformable plastic plate pre-glued on 2 sides.

[0102] Second layer of reinforcement: lambskin leather.

[0103] After sublimation of this complex onto the front side, a leather placemat is obtained with the interior of the leather printed, for making a garment or a placemat. The printed front side has a velvety, very slightly grainy feel.

[0104] Example 7 of a multilayer implementation

[0105] Non-woven layer made of polymer fibres: 80 g / m2 two-component polyester felt with a coarse texture.

[0106] First reinforcement layer: completely opaque short-pile velvet fabric.

[0107] After sublimation of this complex on the front face, a velvet is obtained which gives the illusion of a direct print on velvet.

[0108] Packaging example 8: Perfume bottle casing.

[0109] Non-woven layer made of polymer fibres: 80 g / m2 two-component polyester felt, coarse texture

[0110] First reinforcement layer: 160 g / m2 polyester mesh,

[0111] The non-woven polymer fiber layer was laminated onto the first reinforcing layer and the whole assembly was force-mounted (here using steam) onto a perfume bottle. The product has a smooth, micro-velvet feel.

[0112] It is possible to print a photo on cylindrical packaging (for example by sublimation). For example, a mini portrait of a famous actor / actress could thus appear on the perfume bottle.

Claims

Demands

1. A method for manufacturing a non-woven layer for reprographic support made of polymer fibers forming a decorative surface intended to accommodate one or more impressions, characterized in that it comprises the following successive steps: - (i) a step of mixing a first group of polymer fibers with a second group of polymer fibers, in a mass proportion of fibers of the second group less than or equal to that of the first group of fibers, the polymer fibers of the second group having a softening or melting temperature (T2) lower than the softening or melting temperature (T1) of the polymer(s) of the polymer fiber(s) of the first group of fibers; - (ii) a step of coating said mixture by interlocking said fibers under the action of water jets or by needle punching to obtain a non-woven layer;- (iii) a step of thermally bonding the polymer fibers of the non-woven layer by calendering at a temperature (Tcal) close to ± 5°C of the softening temperature (T2) of the polymer(s) of the fiber(s) of the second group of fibers and lower than the softening or melting temperature (Tl) of the polymer(s) of the fiber(s) of the first group of fibers; - (iv) a step of cooling the resulting thermally bonded non-woven layer, said resulting non-woven layer having a basis weight of between 20 and 200 g / m2.

2. A manufacturing process according to claim 1, characterized in that the polymer fibers are thermoplastic polymer fibers, such as polyester, polyamide, polyethylene and / or polypropylene fibers.

3. A process according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that step (i) comprises mixing 90% by weight of single-component polymer fibers of the first group, with a softening or melting temperature T1 between 230 °C and 250 °C, and 10% by weight of polymer fibers of the second group of fibers with a softening temperature T2 between 170 and 185 °C and a melting temperature of 190 °C, in that step (ii) comprises coating the mixture of said fibers under a water jet with a basis weight of 80 g / m2, and in that step (iii) comprises the thermal bonding of the fibers by calendering the fibers at a temperature between 170°C and 190°C

4. V-. Multilayer reprographic support comprising: - at least one first non-woven layer of polymer fibers according to the process according to any one of the preceding claims, - at least one second reinforcing layer bonded to the first layer, for example bonded via at least one third bonding layer sandwiched between the first and second layers.

5. Multilayer reprographic support according to claim 4 characterized in that at least one protective layer is applied to the surface of the non-woven layer and / or the reinforcing layer.

6. Use of a multilayer reprographic support according to claim 4 or 5 with a printing device to transfer an image onto at least one non-woven polymer fiber layer of said multilayer support.

7. Use according to claim 6 characterized in that the printing device is a digital device, an inkjet type printing device, a laser printing device, a screen printing type printing device, a sublimation device, or a combination thereof.

8. A method for printing an image on a multilayer reprographic substrate according to claim 4 or 5 comprising the following successive steps: - (a) placing said multilayer substrate in a printing device; - (b) operating the printing device to transfer an image onto said multilayer substrate, preferably onto at least one non-woven polymer fiber layer of said multilayer substrate; and - (c) retrieving a printed multilayer substrate, presenting the transferred image.

9. A method according to claim 8, characterized in that the printing device is a digital device, an inkjet printing device, a laser printing device, a screen printing device, a sublimation device, or a combination thereof.

10. Printed multilayer support obtained according to the printing process of claim 8 or 9, having a core colouring of the polymer fibres of the non-woven layer of the multilayer support.